What Is SIBO?

SIBO is the acronym for a condition called Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth. SIBO is a chronic bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine. It is caused when bacteria from the gastrointestinal tract enters the small intestine in large numbers, causing havoc. It is estimated that up to 60% of people with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) are experiencing their symptoms due to SIBO.

Why is this problematic? The small intestine is not supposed to have large numbers of bacteria living in it because the purpose of the small intestine is to absorb the nutrients from our food, not have them broken down by bacteria. When the bacteria overgrow in the small intestine, the normal balance is disrupted and many people can experience painful symptoms, such as:

Bloating

Cramping

Constipation

Diarrhoea

Alternating constipation and diarrhoea

Food sensitivities

Belching and flatulence

Nausea

Heartburn / acid reflux

Fatigue

Chronic digestive complaints

Abdominal cramping and pain

Joint pain

Skin rashes (such as eczema, hives, rashes)

Iron and B12 deficiency

Respiratory symptoms (such as asthma)

Mood symptoms (such as depression, anxiety)

Brain symptoms (such as autism)

What causes SIBO?

It is believed SIBO may be caused or exacerbated through a variety of means, including:

Food poisoning

Gastroenteritis

Gastrointestinal infection and upset

Use of antibiotics

Acid blockers

Fungus overgrowth

Surgical interventions and operations to the abdomen

Endometriosis

A dysfunctional ileocecal valve

Hypothyroidism

Overconsumption of simple carbohydrates

Stress

Diabetes

Caesarian birth

Lack of breast feeding as an infant

What conditions are associated with SIBO?

There are a number of conditions that are known to be associated with SIBO. These are: